How to prepare for a pet mini pig

Are you ready for a pet mini pig? I wasn’t! Learn from my mistakes and be prepared before your mini pig arrives.

I get emails all the time from people asking what they need to get before their mini pig arrives so I have created this page and included links to products we’d suggest.

Most expenses for your pig will be right before your pig arrives and once you have the essentials there will not be many maintenance costs. None of the items we have gotten were too expensive but the quality was good enough to have lasted us for over a year now.

First things first. You need a good water and food bowl that will do its best to hold up against your piggy trying to tip it over. That’s not an easy feat since your pig will almost always try to tip the bowl over. They may be teeny tiny but a mini pig still has a strong snout.

This bowl is the best we have found so far:

We suggest getting two, one for water and one for food. It is raised in the back and heavy enough to make it a challenge for your pig to tip over. Plus, your pig can grow along with it since it is low enough for your teeny tiny mini pig but still good when your mini pig isn’t quite as mini.

An alternative would be this bowl:

Next is a pet bed. This is where your mini pig will find its safe haven, especially in a new environment. You need something soft with sides so it has plenty of space to root into the bed. We recommend this:

A must for a mini pig is at least one blanket, preferably two or three. Please consider buying the rooting blankets I based my business on, all from experience of having a pet pig! Pigs LOVE them (five star ratings)!

If you do not have a door to close off your mini pig, or even if you do, a gate is nice because it allows your pig to still see what’s going around him/her. It doesn’t have to be fancy but it DOES have to be tight so your pig doesn’t outsmart you and figure out how to open it.

Or

Whether or not you have plans for your mini pig to go potty outside, you will still need to provide a litter box and pet pads (much easier to clean) for longer periods in your piggy’s room, including overnight. A pig cannot hold its bladder until around 10 months.

Whatever products you end up choosing, do your best to be prepared and have everything ahead of time. This will ease your mini pig into its new life and also reduce the stress of last minute preparations.

81 thoughts on “How to prepare for a pet mini pig”

There is no way to know. Maybe 25 pounds, maybe 150, maybe more. Every pig is different and it really depends on that pig’s genetic history. Don’t get a mini pig if you won’t be able to keep a big “mini” pig!

Hello! I have a mini pet piggy that I love, but she is getting a bit overweight. I must admit we spoil her with food. How can I have her lose some weight or teach her to stop being so dependent on food? I love my piggy too much to let her get unhealthy.

This is such an easy problem to have and/or create with a mini pig because they just never seem to have enough. I’m not sure how big or old she is but just make sure she is getting enough of her pellets (see FAQ page for help understanding a healthy amount) and if it’s too much start cutting back on that and increasing the amount of green healthy veggies so that she is not going through a major withdrawal.

Taking away food has sometimes resulted in behavioral issues so make sure it is very gradual. Once she is down to what is appropriate, keep offering snacks of green veggies throughout day and for special rewards if you choose to. That way she will be slowly filling up her stomach, just not like before.

Another good idea is to try to get her some exercise. If you can’t walk around outside, even getting her to move around inside will help. Not sure if she likes to run around in circles like Cocco sometimes but surprisingly pigs do enjoy running around on a carpet. So you can do that or even just walk or trot her around by tempting her with a snack. Then reward her and do a little more.

Don’t push her and make sure everything is very gradual so she doesn’t sense an immediate change. Good luck!

Hey I was wondering if you have any suggestions on good breeders? I really want a mini pig but I have some size requirements from the rest of the fam. But do not fret because we have a backup plan just in case. He/she can go live in another family member’s farm (without the threat of being eaten, of course) and have constant visits.

Thanks for your visit! I don’t endorse or promote any breeders especially because there is no guarantee on size. There are a few big mini pig breeders that come up in a search and I’d suggest contacting each one with a list of questions. Good luck!

I am getting a mini pig and I am nervous about it. What do you think is the best advice for helping her get use to the family. I have two grandchildren I babysit ( age 9 and 6) and I have a 8 year old dog (shitzu) any advice will be welcome. Also wonder if anyone ever uses a pet stroller to walk their pig.

I’m so glad it can help you! Coccolino no longer uses a litter box but we used a cat litter box that I sawed one side off of and put puppy pads in them. You can also use a ferret litter box.

Puppy pads are much easier and cleaner to use than actual litter but if you do use litter make sure it is non-clumping. If a pig eats some of the litter and it is clumping it could seriously damage them and essentially clump in their stomach!

To raise an outdoor pig, I would recommend a cattle panel or something of approximately those dimensions. They are usually 16 feet long and four feet high. You can use fencing too, just make sure it’s strong and sturdy. You will need to provide lots of insulation to keep him warm/cool depending on the season and where you are located. Straw is good for warmth and piggy pools are good to cool down, just always make sure he has access to fresh water always to cool down.

We’re getting a private fence constructed and reinforcing with chicken wire with the pool and such 🙂 thanks for the advice. We tested him outside on a weekend we’d be home all day to make sure he wouldn’t mind being outside alone and the second we left he began screaming. He enjoys going outside so much when we’re there but apparently hates it alone. I’ve seen that getting another pig tends to help but we’ve already got 2 dogs and a pig and don’t want to become animal horders. Is there any way to avoid getting another animal but help him relax? Thanks for all the help!

Don’t worry, this is very normal behavior for a little pig but eventually he would stop that screaming (most likely). Soon when they discover grazing, they care more about the grass than the company.

However, if he doesn’t have any grazing area within his fenced in area, it would probably be a good idea to just load him with a bed, blankets and maybe a toy that allows you to hide treats within it. For example, pigs like small kong toys with frozen peanut butter or frozen yogurt. Depending on how long you are gone, he really might need some company and that would have to be a pig, not a dog. Pigs do not do well alone for too long!

Thank so much! A family friend stayed over while there was no one else there (9:00-4:00) to make sure he’d be ok and although he was very upset when we left, he apparently calmed down later. He does have grazing area. Is this too long for him to be alone? Should we board him? Thanks for all the help!

Coccolino is two years old. Pigs are full grown at three years old. Every pig is different depending on the training so it really depends from pig to pig! Pigs are very smart, though, and can learn just about anything.

There is a lot of misleading information out there which is why I am always upfront and honest on my blog. Some pigs DO get to be much larger than expected or “guaranteed” (there is no guarantee, ever). Every pig is different and each breeder operates differently. Some end up being 25-35 pounds, others get to 100 or more.

It’s important to do research but I always advise that if you are not able to accommodate or handle a pig if they get bigger than expected, a pig probably isn’t the best choice.

Here are some questions about food please answer them if you can! What kind of food do they eat like the brand and stuff. What kind of toys would they like? And can you let them in a fenced in backyard (chain-link) if there are hawks and coyotes in your neighborhood? Thank you!

Sure. They typically eat Mazuri brand mini pig pellets as their staple food with lots of veggies as supplements. Fruit is too caloric for a daily addition in large quantities but it’s a great treat.

Lots of pigs just love their blankets for cuddling and rooting and don’t enjoy toys but there are some that play with squeaky toys.

We have hawks and foxes (no coyotes) and I only let Cocco out when I’m home and/or outside with him. When they are babies, they are so small and it’s too risky with those kind of animals around. So unless you are with the pig, I wouldn’t recommend leaving him out for too long alone unless it’s a fully enclosed fence.

Hi Lily, a mini pig is a lot of work so just make sure you realize how much before you get one. Also, there is no way to really predict how big a pig will get so if size is a factor I don’t know that a mini pig is the right pet. Some mini pigs stay 25 pounds, others over 100. It really depends on genetics and the pig’s diet, etc. Spending is minimal with pigs as their food lasts a while and they only require a yearly checkup unless something goes wrong. I would say maybe $300/year, being generous but also consider you will need to make other provisions such as litter box, bed, blanket, water bowl, food bowl, outdoor gate, indoor gates, etc.

I like how you said the food is based on weight. I’m tired of seeing pig owners and breeders say “x” amount of food for every pig. A lot of them only say this because thats how they “stay small” when really they are just starving them! Kudos to you for great, honest, and insightful information. 🙂

Hi, I just got my Charlotte (Charlie) 4 days ago & she is already warmed up BUT she roots on my youngest daughter & I as well as anyone else is this normal & when I try to touch her to stop she nips at us what should I be doing when she nips because it does hurt & I do not want her to be a biter obviously I want her to be very social but she won’t stop rooting on us. She is about 5.5 lbs & roots everywhere especially on our carpet which is a shag carpet so she may be eating it. I feel like I am doing everything wrong lol

Hello there, you are doing nothing wrong! This is a huge sign of affection and comfort. For her to root on you and everyone else is a very social thing to do! Coccolino only started to root on me when he finally felt safe and comfortable with me and he still only roots on me.

The reason I came up with the rooting blanket from my shop is to help transfer rooting habits from on a person (it can hurt after a while!) to a blanket, even if that blanket is on top of you. They are very thick so it helps to create a barrier. You can use anything similar to help her root into that instead but definitely don’t discourage it, just try to transfer her rooting to the blanket!

Thank you I was trying to research it but wasn’t finding anything so thought I would ask you & my breeder which she said the same thing. I don’t want her biting I want her to be very social & loving obviously but every time you touch her by her nose or face while she is rooting she bites & then I take her snout & say ‘Charlie No Bite’ & that does not seem to phase her because was soon as I let her about go she tries to bite me again. I also tried to push her by her shoulder until she backs up and she runs always & say no bite as I am touching her but it’s hot getting better I think it may be getting worse. I only got her on Nov 29 and she is 8 1/2 weeks old

Instead of directly touching her or taking her snout, try another tactic. Get a spray bottle and mist her when she bites. She will not like this. And if she does it again, she needs to be out in another room to prevent another incident of biting. Pigs do not respond well to physical discipline and the side snout swipe is how pigs react to each other. If that’s not working, better to try the water or a metal can that you can shake with pennies inside to associate biting with a negative consequence.

Also, do you recommend any of the ball toys with the tiny holes that they work to get treats out of? Have heard some people say it’s good for pigs cause keeps them from getting bored. The dog ones I’ve seen though, the holes seem too big. Didn’t know if you’ve had any experience with one and if you’d recommend. Thanks!

Yes I think they are a great idea! Again not initially because first your pig needs to be comfortable enough to eat. Once he has adjusted then you can definitely get some of these. I like the small dog Kong and you can freeze peanut butter in. Also other dog dispensing treat toys for small dogs are all great!

Hi, I’ll be picking up my baby mini pig tomorrow.. He’s actually only a few days old so I will be bottle feeding (due to loss of mother) and I’m little worried about him only be 3 days old and already bottle feeding.. The breeder uses milk replacer and what’s I’ll be feeding him too, but I’m worried if he has a chance of not making since he didn’t nurse long at all, and if there is anything extra you would recommend to keep him healthy and we’ll nourished. This is also my first pig and I’m a little nervous for that. If you have any tips at all with riaising a newborn pig it would sure help! Thanks in advance.

Hi there, that’s quite a venture! I’m sure you’re discovering on your first day the huge responsibility it is to have a baby piglet on a bottle. They require endless attention and care.

As long as the pig is able to continue nutrition intake, everything should be okay. If any feelings go missed or are not taken, this is hugely important and you need to contact a vet as piglets that young are unable to continue functioning without their nutrition. Good luck and please do keep me updated!

I think you should check with your local store. I have never brought Coccolino only because it would frighten him and the chance of other dogs being there wouldn’t be worth it for us or him to feel comfortable. I don’t think they would object to pigs in the store though!

HI! i have been looking into a pig for a while and know someone giving one away due to lack of time. I have done a lot of research on expenses and care and even made a slideshow expressing every question my parents could have about her.The thing i need to know is how much space and/or what sections of the house should she be limited to? could she even have free range of the house if i am around? thanks.

Hi and thanks for your comment. To be honest, each pig is different but almost every pig is difficult to some degree, especially in a new environment. Pigs really dislike change so they are scared and stressed and act out. Probably in ways your parents would not like!

If you can commit to the potty training and devote enough time to your pig (they are not dogs and do not like to be alone all day), then try to consider that they can be loud and disruptive. I just want to make sure you know what you’re getting into! I would hate to see you take the pig and not be able to keep it when you see how much work they are and how much patience you need!

I’m not sure how old the pig is but most likely should not have free reign. Usually a section of the kitchen or a small room and more space after going potty and work up and up to more. It takes weeks, months, in my case it’s years and still potty issues going on. It is a lot of work but they are a lot of love too!

I am awaiting the arrival of my new mini pig. I haven’t purchased anything yet as once its born I will have another 8 weeks before I can bring it home. I have always wanted one but I have a lot of anxiety also. I want to be a great piggy parent and do all the right things. I’m trying to do a lot of research to help me train a lovable well mannered pig. any suggestions would be helpful

Oh another question is about how they can get lonely if I have to leave for awhile. I have considered getting two to keep each other company but not sure if being a first time owner if this will be to much.

They definitely don’t enjoy being alone too much. Getting two is a lot of work but if you raise them together from the beginning it’s much easier than introducing one later on. However, you will have to work to spend alone time with each so they bond to you and not just each other. But do keep in mind they do not like to be alone and might act out if they are lonely and bored.

Would your pig be alone only at night? In that case, it is completely fine and I would think it rare for a pig to act out if just alone at night. I really just meant during the day. Pigs don’t like to be left alone too long during the day, nights are fine. So definitely don’t get another pig just for spending the night alone!

Ah I see. Okay, a period during the day would be fine too, it’s just a full work day away is often tough to leave a pig alone as they will be bored and lonely. But being gone a few hours during the day is completely fine! If you are away for a full day, every day, then I would think twice or consider getting two pigs just so it’s not too much alone time.

I have been really wanting a mini pig for a while and are trying to convince my parents to let me get one! I just have a few questions…
Are they very noisy during the day or at night?
How much do they cost?
Do they get along with dogs?
Would the pig be able to be alone when I would. Be at school my school day is 6 hours 8-2:30?

Pigs are a lot of responsibility! And maintenance. They do not enjoy being alone and although that’s not a long time to be out, it is still a lot of alone time for a pig. If you are planning to potty train, that will be a big stretch for the first year or so and you’ll have to leave a litter box out. If your pig doesn’t want to use a litter box, you will end up with a very yucky mess when you get home from school.

Pigs are not noisy for the most part unless there is a reason to be (scared, lonely, etc).

Pigs cannot be left alone with dogs, especially in the beginning when they are young. Even playing could cause serious internal injuries to pigs.

Cost ranges depending on the breeder so you will need to check around but be sure it’s something you want to get into! It is not easy to rehome pigs so just do some research 🙂

Hey so i just purchased my mini pig he comes home in less than a week, just had a few simple questions
I am well aware of him needing to be neutared to be a good pet.. at what age can i take him i know it varys for the vets one vet i called said they would when its 5 weeks old and the other said 2 months what do you suggest both testicles are both dropped,
My second question is im only not home for 3 hours in the day may i keep him in a giant dog cage that does fit litter box his bed an also lost of space ( i would use this at night time) i would also leave water i am not cruel😂,

Only your vet can tell you for sure but 5-6 weeks is about right for neutering a pig. You can absolutely leave him in a large dog kennel with water, litter box and a comfy bed and blanket. It might not be so clean when you get home but your pig would need to be contained in a small space while you are not supervising – not cruel!

Hello my name his doreen I just got mini pig he is 2 months old but he gets excited alot he started to come around us more now but I have to go out of town for week and couldn’t find any places that would take him to broad him if I leave plenty of water and good will he go ok
Is ok to let him sleep downstairs while I sleep upstairs how much time do I spent him everyday

You really cannot leave your pig alone. Not only are they unsuited to being alone, they can become very destructive. You should at least plan on someone coming in to spend time with him during the day if you cannot find someone to stay with him.

Definitely okay for him to sleep downstairs.

Pigs require time and attention. The more you bond with your pig when he is young, the better off you will both be!

I would not leave your piggy alone. They are very social and need a lot of attention ( especially one so young and vulnerable). My Juliana is 7 months old and would not be able to manage on her own for a week. Ours actually sleeps with us ( and dogs and an occasional child with a bad dream:-). I, for the life of me can not find a good harness but we use a dog harness and she stays in it for the most part but those short legs and no neck are a challenge.